Fears raised over street design project for Lenzie

Photo Emma Mitchell 27.09.16'Pic of launch of public consultation by council regarding improvements for Lenzie.

Published:10:22Updated:10:37Monday 17 October 2016

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Concern has been raised over the possibility of a ‘shared space’ scheme for Lenzie – similar to the controversial project at Kirkintilloch.

Thousands of people are up in arms over the new road design at Cowgate, particularly the removal of traffic lights at the busy Catherine Street junction.

Now East Dunbartonshire Council’s Transport Team has linked up again with Sustrans Scotland for the ‘Lenzie Street Design Project’.

They say the aim of the project is to improve public space, encourage more sustainable travel and make it easier for people to access public transport around the station forecourt area.

Developers looking to build houses in the area will help with the cost of the proposed construction, according to the council.

Disabled campaigner Sandy Taylor, who has been heading the protest against the Cowgate project, said he hoped both Sustrans and the council had “learned lessons from their previous experiences in Kirkintilloch.”

He added: “All changes must be ‘inclusive’ and suitable for everyone, including the blind and visually impaired, the disabled, the elderly and all other vulnerable people.”

A one-day on-street consultation event was held recently in Lenzie and a consultation website has been set up for comments, until November 1.

Mr Taylor, who attended the street event, said: “I was present when several members of the local community voiced fears following the debacle in Kirkintilloch.”

He added: “To simply hold an outdoor meeting, hand out a few flyers and chat with passers-by, does not in any way constitute proper consultation. A widely publicised public meeting should be held to include the views of the many people unable to make contributions on a website.

“Any attempt by Sustrans and EDC to impose unwanted change must be robustly opposed.”

Paul Ruffles, Street Design Coordinator, Sustrans Scotland said on Monday: “Sustrans Scotland and East Dunbartonshire Council will, as part of the Street Design process, continue to engage with local residents, businesses and stakeholders in Lenzie.

“Information collected from the recent launch event, project website and workshops planned for late November will all be used to shape design proposals that will be put back to the public for comment and consideration.